AI-mediated mystical experiences
Religious Studies October 30, 2025 DOI: 10.1017/s0034412525101285 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Meditation Mysticism Mystical experience |
| Keywords | Raising metalworking Sufism Epistemology Psychoanalysis |
| Key points | Argues that interactions with AI chatbots can mediate mystical experiences in a way structurally comparable to guided meditation. |
Abstract
Abstract This paper argues that interactions with artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, such as ChatGPT, can mediate genuine mystical experiences. Building off the framework of mystical experiences developed by William James, I argue that interactions with AI chatbots can mediate mystical experiences in a structurally comparable way to how guided meditation can produce mystical experiences. I conclude by raising various concerns about the implementation of AI technologies in our religious lives, including their use as mediators for mystical experiences.